As brands head into 2026, one thing is clear: merch is no longer an afterthought. It’s a strategic tool for building culture, elevating customer experience, and creating memorable touchpoints that last far beyond a campaign or event date. After walking the showrooms at this year’s promotional product roadshows and reviewing what’s trending across suppliers, we’ve rounded up the branded merch items that are already defining 2026 and why they’re resonating with teams and customers alike.

1. Elevated Functional Bags

From premium totes to structured backpacks, bags continue to dominate, but with a noticeable shift toward elevated materials and multifunctional design. Products like the North Face 25L Travel Tote are gaining traction because they strike the perfect balance between style and utility. Puffer totes are bringing style to office commutes and weekender bags, all insulated of course.

Brands love them for onboarding kits and client gifting because they feel substantial, get used daily, and offer a large imprint area for logos. In the showroom, we saw a surge in sleek, travel‑ready silhouettes that make branded gear feel like a lifestyle upgrade.

2. Soft‑Touch Apparel That Actually Gets Worn

Gone are the days of stiff tees and boxy hoodies. In 2026, apparel is all about comfort, drape, and premium blends. Think quarter‑zips with modern tailoring, heavyweight tees with a lived‑in feel, and fleece that rivals retail favorites.

✨What’s working is simple: when apparel feels good, people wear it more, and your brand stays visible longer.

3. Drinkware That Works (and Looks Good Doing It)

High‑performance drinkware continues to be a top category, but 2026 is all about refined shapes, new colorways, and sustainability. Stainless steel tumblers with leakproof lids, ceramic‑lined bottles that keep flavors pure, and stackable mugs are leading the pack.

At recent showrooms, suppliers showcased drinkware that blends form and function (pieces that feel like something you’d buy for yourself). That’s the sweet spot for branded merch you'll want to sip on all year round.

4. Curated Kits for Every Moment

Instead of one‑off items, brands are leaning into curated kits that tell a story. New hire welcome kits, client appreciation bundles, and event‑specific sets are becoming the norm. These kits work because they create a cohesive experience and allow brands to mix practical items (like notebooks or drinkware) with fun, personality‑driven pieces. Not to mention they also photograph beautifully, making them ideal for social media reveals and sharing with brand ambassadors.

Some of our favorites include this candle making kit, a self love 'pamper me kit', team pen customization bar, and travel sized watercolor books. Explore all curated kits. 

Why These Trends Matter

The biggest shift we’re seeing for 2026 is intentionality. Brands aren’t choosing swag just to check a box for the year, they’re choosing pieces that align with their values, elevate their image, and genuinely serve the people receiving them. When merch is thoughtfully selected, it becomes a powerful extension of your brand.

If you’re planning your 2026 merch strategy, we’d love to help you build kits and select products that feel modern, meaningful, and made to last.